Misfits

2025年10月12日

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Formation & Members

The Misfits, often hailed as pioneers of the horror punk subgenre, were formed in 1977 in Lodi, New Jersey. The band’s original lineup featured Glenn Danzig on vocals and keyboards, Jerry Only on bass guitar, Frank Licata (Franché Coma) on guitar, and Manny Martínez on drums. The Misfits’ name was inspired by Marilyn Monroe’s final film, reflecting the band’s fascination with horror and sci-fi themes that would become central to their identity.

Throughout their tumultuous history, the band’s lineup experienced numerous changes, with Danzig and Only as the most consistent members. Other notable musicians who have played with the Misfits include Doyle Wolfgang von Frankenstein, Jerry’s younger brother, on guitar, and drummer Arthur Googy. After Glenn Danzig’s departure in 1983, the band saw several reincarnations, with Only eventually taking over vocal duties in the 1990s. The revolving lineup contributed to the band’s dynamic sound and evolution over the years.

Musical Style & Characteristics

The Misfits are renowned for their unique blend of punk rock and horror-themed lyrics, which gave rise to the horror punk genre. Their music is characterized by fast tempos, aggressive guitar riffs, and catchy melodies, often accompanied by Danzig’s distinctive, crooning vocal style. The band drew inspiration from 1950s rock and roll as well as classic horror films, infusing their music with a sense of theatricality and macabre humor.

The band’s aesthetic was further defined by their iconic “Fiend Skull” logo and their penchant for theatrical performances, often featuring horror-themed costumes and stage props. This visual identity became as significant as their music, cementing the Misfits’ place in punk culture and influencing future generations of musicians.

Key Works & Discography

The Misfits’ discography is a testament to their enduring influence and innovation within the punk genre. Their early releases, including the “Cough/Cool” single and the “Static Age” sessions, laid the groundwork for their signature sound. However, it was the 1982 album “Walk Among Us” that solidified their status as punk rock icons. The album featured fan favorites like “Astro Zombies” and “Night of the Living Dead,” showcasing their ability to craft memorable tunes with a horror twist.

Another cornerstone of their discography is “Earth A.D./Wolfs Blood,” released in 1983, which marked a shift towards a faster, more hardcore-influenced sound. This album is often cited as a precursor to the thrash metal movement, highlighting the band’s versatility and willingness to push boundaries. The Misfits continued to release compilation albums and reissues, such as “Legacy of Brutality” and “Collection I and II,” which introduced new fans to their extensive catalog.

Influence on Other Bands/Scenes

The Misfits’ impact on the punk and metal scenes is immeasurable. Their horror-centric themes and unique sound have inspired countless bands across various genres. Notably, their influence can be seen in the work of bands like Metallica, who have covered Misfits songs such as “Die, Die My Darling” and “Last Caress.” Their theatrical stage presence and visual storytelling also paved the way for bands like Marilyn Manson and Rob Zombie, who have similarly embraced horror aesthetics in their performances.

Beyond music, the Misfits have left an indelible mark on popular culture, with their iconography appearing in fashion, film, and art. The band’s DIY ethic and rebellious spirit continue to resonate with fans and musicians alike, ensuring their legacy endures beyond their original era.

Breakups or Reunions

The history of the Misfits is marked by numerous breakups and reunions, each adding a new chapter to their storied legacy. The original lineup disbanded in 1983 after creative tensions between Danzig and Only reached a boiling point. Danzig went on to form the band Samhain, and later the eponymous Danzig, while Only and Doyle pursued legal battles over the Misfits name and catalog.

In the mid-1990s, Jerry Only and Doyle reformed the Misfits with new members, including singer Michale Graves and drummer Dr. Chud. This iteration of the band released several albums, including “American Psycho” and “Famous Monsters,” which introduced the Misfits to a new generation of fans. In 2016, a long-awaited reunion of the original members occurred, featuring Danzig, Only, and Doyle, alongside Slayer drummer Dave Lombardo, thrilling fans with performances of classic Misfits material.

Current Reputation & Legacy

The Misfits’ legacy continues to grow, as new generations discover their music and their influence is felt across genres. They are often credited with pioneering the horror punk genre, blending punk rock’s raw energy with themes of horror and fantasy. The band’s impact is celebrated through merchandise, tribute bands, and cover songs, keeping their spirit alive in popular culture.

In the realm of punk rock, the Misfits are revered as legends, with their music serving as a touchstone for both the punk and metal communities. Their fearless exploration of dark themes and their commitment to a DIY ethic have inspired countless artists to pursue their creative visions without compromise.

Conclusion

The Misfits stand as a testament to the enduring power of punk rock and the creativity it inspires. From their early days in New Jersey to their influence on bands and artists worldwide, the Misfits have carved out a unique place in the annals of music history. Their blend of horror, punk, and rock and roll continues to captivate audiences, ensuring that the Misfits’ legacy will live on for generations to come.

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Band facts

Formed	1977
Origin	Lodi
Genres	hardcore punk / horror punk
Labels	Plan 9 Records

Sources: Wikidata / MusicBrainz

Discography

Year	Type	Title
1978	EP	Bullet
1979	EP	Horror Business
1979	EP	Night of the Living Dead
1980	EP	Beware
1981	EP	3 Hits From Hell
1982	Album	Walk Among Us
1983	Album	Earth A.D. / Wolfs Blood
1987	EP	Evil Is As Evil Does
1989	EP	Creepshow
1996	Album	Static Age
1997	Album	American Psycho
1999	Album	Famous Monsters
1999	Album	Music From the Upcoming Famous Monsters
2003	Album	Project 1950
2008	Album	Max's Kansas City

Show all

Year	Type	Title
2011	Album	The Devil's Rain
2016	EP	Friday the 13th
1981	Live	Blackristmas
1982	Live	1982-04-07: Los Angeles, CA, USA
1982	Live	Evilive
1985	Compilation	Legacy of Brutality
1986	Compilation	Misfits
1987	Live	Live Night of the Living Dead
1988	Compilation / Live	Evil-Five
1988	Live	Heroes of Danzig
1988	Live	The Evil Dead IV
1989	Live	At the Ritz NYC 12/81
1989	Live	Demonomania
1989	Live	Horrorbullet
1990	Live	Return of the Fly
1991	Compilation	Beyond Evil
1991	Compilation	Earth A.D. / Wolfs Blood / Evilive
1991	Compilation	Horror Business
1991	Live	The Very Last Performance
1992	Live	Back With A Bang!
1993	Compilation	Return of the Records, Volume 1
1993	Compilation	Seven Boots From Hell
1994	Compilation	Beware and the Rest
1994	Compilation	Beware: The Complete Singles 77-82
1994	Live	Demonomania Club
1995	Compilation	Collection II
1995	Compilation / Live	Psychomania
1996	Compilation	A Special Sampler Edition Of The Misfits Box-set (CAR 7529)
1996	Compilation	Blackristmas
1996	Compilation	The Misfits Box Set
1997	Live	Evilive
1998	Live	Evillive II
1999	Live	The Last Show Ever!
2000	Compilation	Horror Business
2001	Compilation	12 Hits From Hell
2001	Compilation	Cuts from the Crypt: 1996-2001
2001	Compilation / Live	If You Don't Know This Song... / Beware
2001	Live	Last Caress
2003	Live	Brain Eaters
2005	Live	Max's Kansas City
2006	Live	Spook City USA
2010	Compilation / Live	Walk Among Us and the Spot Sessions Demos
2013	Live	DEA.D. Alive!
2015	Live	Ghouls Night Out
2015	Live	Walk Among You
2017	Live	Teenagers From Mars
2017	Live	Wasp Queens
2020	Live	Walk Among You: Live At Michigan Union Ballroom, Detroit, 1983 (WCBN FM Radio Broadcast)
2022	Live	Room 21 (Live Detroit '83)
2023	Live	Horror Business In New York
	Compilation	Greatest Hits of The Misfits
	Compilation	If You Don't Know This Song...
	Compilation	Kill Your Baby Today
	Live	L. A. Woman
	Live	Live At The Whiskey-A-Go Go 1982
	Compilation	Teenage Insemination
	Compilation	The 12 Inch Compilation